ALOOOOOHA!

Yes. That's right. A hawaiian theme in the middle of a very cold winter. Every year, it is tradition for the girls in the family to have a tea. Every year it is a different theme. This year's theme is a Hawaiian theme (I even had a friend who was going to Hawaii get me some authentic Hawaiian gifts.) ...everyone brings a homemade craft or gift of some sort that goes with the theme...but we have decided to change it a bit. Here's how it went down...

With all the craziness of the season and the added bits of stress and laces of sadness, we decided the tea was too far out of reach. We have now started a new tradition...

We went to the Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney and had yummy beignets. YUM!!!! We all had a great time...with little to no stress and we have decided that this should be our new tradition. As for the Hawaiian theme? We have decided to have a Hawaiian themed New Years Eve. Should be fun. Will let you know how it goes.
Here are some pictures of the day...

I know...not the best picture of me but you can look at everyone else.

If I don't speak to you before; I hope you all have a wonderful and safe New Year!!!

Happy Christmas Eve!

I can't believe it is Christmas already. The last few weeks have been a whirr of activity.
I love Christmas...the lights, the decorations...it makes everything feel so warm, quiet and peaceful....then you hit the mall or a store and they are running you over to get that last bargain that is needed, ripping it out of your hands.

Seriously, Christmas is a time of family coming together...our pastor says that the holidays are about presence...not presents. Every year it seems like a rat race because Mike and I travel from his family to mine on Christmas Eve and again on Christmas. It is crazy...and exhausting...but it is family...and we wouldn't have it any other way. This year I am grateful to for the presence of my family. Everyone is able to be here and while this Christmas will weigh heavier at times with a twinge of sadness for missing our loved one, she will be in our hearts; We will all be together celebrating the Hope that comes from the birth of one very special little boy.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season full of presence of loved ones!!!

Wishing you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!
And Happy Birthday Jesus!!!

3 days till Christmas...or is it 4?

Finally! Christmas Cards are done and sent out. Which one will you get??? Actually, they were done a while ago...and addressed...but life happened and I got behind...still...they are on their way and in my opinion...beautiful...Hope you like them...

Well, I am off this week...and loving it already. I have big plans for today...I want to clean off my dining area so I can play with the cricut...Bethany and I need to get her tree up...and I think that is all...Believe me...It is enough...

Yesterday in church we had a special guest in Sunday school...SANTA WAS THERE!!!

Pretty cute huh? Well I am off to clean so I can play. Talk to you all soon...

In Loving Memory...

I have to admit...I have been dreading this post for several days. Here goes...

Wednesday night Auntie Baba was welcomed into the arms of the Lord. I am so happy that her suffering is over and so saddened by the loss of a wonderful person. I loved her so very much.

Oh boy...here come the water works. I was doing so well too.

I think it is sinking in that we will never share in another Christmas, or tea, or share wacky ideas, hear her laugh or her quirky wit....It is all a memory....but truly one I will remember always.

So while I will not see her again in this lifetime; She will be there when the Lord welcomes me home too. (Hopefully that will not be too soon). For now, goodbye sweet Baba. Rest in Peace. I will miss you terribly, think of you often and while I will not see you again this side of heaven, you will forever be in my heart.

Twilight Zone

Picture this...a three bedroom farm house...cows mooing in the background...two rocking chairs on the porch...You are standing in the living room with surroundings unfamiliar to you. Different house, different furniture...different state...different feel. Nothing is yours...nothing feels safe...Everywhere you look you just hear the tune in your head...(do do do do; do do do do) That was the twilight zone song. That is how my mom felt as she cleaned this house for her sister to come die in....

Don't get me wrong...this house was generously given to us on loan so that Baba could spend her final days as comfortable as possible but I think it was just strange thinking that she was preparing for her sisters death. Surreal, I would think. Sad...

Well, Barbara is still hanging in there. Her children are all there. My uncle and grand dad came home on Monday. Mom comes home on Thursday. I don't know how my uncle Ernie is handling things but my Grand dad pretty much considers her dead. He went and said goodbye and that is it. That is his grieving process I guess. Me? I just can't...

It is funny how you can not see someone for a couple years, and while you may miss that person, it isn't until you start to lose them forever that you really start to miss them. It is too bad we can't grieve while we can do something about it...Don't get me wrong. I love my aunt...she knows that and has never doubted it...but I will still miss her terribly...her kids may not be so lucky...

Okay...sad news behind us... lets hear some happy news...hmmm...I had something in line but I can't remember. I am tired...talked to you all soon

Please help Mommy to be brave...

That was Bethany's prayer tonight.

I imagine it is the same for everyone who has experienced loss. My loss has not yet capped but my heart doesn't believe it. Some days are easier than others to get through. Tuesday I was good and strong and a great support to my mom (even though she didn't act like she wanted it.) Yesterday...not so much. I was busy at work all day but once I picked up Bethany, I became emotional...and then a wreck...I had to pull myself together in the middle of Target. Poor Bethany just looked at me like I had completely lost it. (and I had) I have decided to build strength on the good days and use the strength on the bad days...Hopefully there are more good days than bad...

So on to happier moments. Tonight was the school Christmas musical. My niece (SJ) and Bethany both go to the same school so it is fun to see them both up there singing....and dancing. Bethany had a "hip hop" dance number before the program started. She was a riot...and she loved every minute of it.

There isn't much to tell about the musical itself except that all the kids (k-6th grade) wore white shirts with jeans. They accessorized with scarves, hats and gloves...(those poor kids must have been roasting...) and they sang...some alone, some in groups, some spoke...A good time was had by all. Oh and don't forget the cocoa and cookie reception afterward. YUM!

Speaking of...that is all for now. Talk to you soon. Nighty night

Auntie Baba...

Here is the latest on my aunt...

Yesterday she was diagnosed as Stage 4 Cancer. The doctors have given her days/weeks maybe a couple of months to live. The doctors have not released her to travel by commercial air or car so we are trying to get her life-flighted here to California where she can spend her final days with family. I am part of an amazing family where everyone is pulling together and doing what needs to be done.

My Uncle Ernie is talking with the Doctors to get her here. Once she is here, she will be living with them so they can take care of her. My brother is working on a plane ticket(if needed) for my mom to fly out to Idaho. I even have a cousin (her ex son in law) who has offered to drive my mom out there and bring Baba back if it is needed.

It all seems surreal.... I will keep you posted.

Still Thankful

Can it be? Less than a week has gone by and I am writing AGAIN??? You are two lucky readers...Ok. Enough Jibber Jabber (I think I have been hanging around Echo too long :)...).

Dad is doing MUCH better. He is like a new person...and he should be. Really. I saw him this weekend and he is amazing. He will go back to the doctor on Monday to see where we are at. Keep praying for him as his immune system is still shot and will take a while to build back up.

Auntie Baba is back in the hospital. We are not sure on what stage etc she is in. Please pray for her as well. She has some great family members that have stepped up to the plate to take care of her.

On the scrappy side...I spent many hours yesterday at the Red Bee working on Christmas Cards and gifts. I had great plans of accomplishing all my projects...Well, I was on such a roll that I asked if I could come back today. Echo and I worked on projects all day....I got my cards done...that is all...Course, there are about 50 of them. Maybe you will get one. You will have to wait and see.

That is all for now. Take it easy. Talk to you soon.

Thankful

Hello. I KNOW!!! Can you believe I am writing twice in one week? Who does that??? I know. Everyone but me. I am doing it now...

So, to update you all on my dad...He is home from the hospital. His blood platelets are still low. They should be 100 but are at 23 (according to my dad). He is supposed to stay away from too much riff raff as his immune system is still down.

I miss my friend. Something will happen about my brother or whatever and I will want to tell him what is going on...he isn't there. Very strange...Still, it is for the best.

My BFF had a great time in Indio. She loved it all. She was tired but we finally figured out by the end that she was getting sick (how is that for denial?). I had a great time too. We pushed our old bodies to the limit and defied middle age once again!!! (HA HA HA!!!!)

So with all that said. I write this with a thankful heart. I am thankful that my dad is doing better and it is nothing too serious. I am thankful for the friends that are currently in my life. I am thankful for a church that continues to care and be concerned even in my doubt...and pray for me...THANKFUL...That God answers the prayers of lowly people like me...I am thankful for family both immediate and extended who keep me grounded...thankful for A wonderful husband who we will celebrate 9 yearsof wedded bliss (okay...mostly wedded bliss...sometimes just wedded.) on Thanksgiving...There is so much to be thankful for...THANKFUL...most of all to God for his grace...HIS PLAN that I so don't understand...but I am thankful for it.

What are you thankful for?

FIRST! Fire! Family!! Friends!!!

First! Welcome to Middle Age my friend. My best friend enters middle age today. For 40 days she had a gift to open...Now we are in beautiful Indio... She is sleeping in and I am catching you up on everything...HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRIEND!!!!!

This has been the craziest week. First we were threatened by fire...then we had some family scares and I had a disappointing outcome to a friendship.

FIRE!!!
Yes, we were packed and ready for the Fire Dept. to tell us to evacuate. Thankfully that knock on the door. We could see the smoke from our house but we didn't really venture out to see the fires. Now we are safe and the drama of the day seems so insignificant.

FAMILY!!!
What a crazy week of family crisis and near misses we had. First, my mom had a birthday on Monday...Happy b-day mom...Only it wasn't happy...She had just found out that my aunt Barbara (her sister), had been airlifted out of her home (she lives on a prairie outside of Boise, ID), and transported to a hospital. Here they found out that my aunt has a rare cancer that is called Peritoneal Cancer which is in true Auntie Baba style. Nothing normal for her...We don't know much more except the doctors think it has spread to her ovaries and they should have started chemo this week.
Tuesday my dad was admitted to the hospital because his hemoglobin was at 7 and it should have been at 14. The doctor put him in the hospital for further testing and a blood transfusion. After reading his chart the doctor wanted to do more tests and rule out leukemia and lymphoma. The doctor conducted a bone marrow test (OUCH!) and a Catscan. (let me just add here that the doctor was almost sure it was leukemia and that dad was not a good candidate for chemo due to a bad liver). Needless to say, we were all being brave. So on Wednesday, the family gathered around as the doctor gave the diagnosis...NO LEUKEMIA AND NO LYMPHOMA!!! Dad has a B12 difficiency called Pernicious Anemia. He has had several blood transfusions and will continue to have them throughout the weekend. Hopefully he can come home by Monday. Since his bloodcount was so low, they have him in an isolated room so he does not catch infections.

FRIENDS!!!
Of course you know that today is my Best Friends B-day...HAPPY B_DAY AGAIN!!!!! I have lots planned for her. But you will have to wait... This is what I woke up to...

As I mentioned before...it has been one thing after another this week...it doesn't stop here...I have a very dear friend who, due to some misunderstandings and past "sins", (not on my part)we will need to cease our communications. I already feel like a part of me has died but I know that God has a better plan and I am trusting in Him with all of this. I wish nothing but the best to him and his family.

Now for the best part of this whole crazy week. I think you should know that I have the best husband around. He has been so supportive through this whole week. He has been a strong anchor of support when I need him the most. First with support when I was scared about Dad and then when the whole thing happened with my friend mentioned above he stood by my side and let me know that I was not alone. I love you honey!!!Heart You!

That is all for now...I will update soon. Have a great day. I will. :)

Blessed Friendships

I know I know...I say I will write and it never seems to be enough. Really. I could write everyday...as everyday seems to be an adventure, however, the adventures seem to wipe me out lately. I must be aging...NAH!!! That is just silly talk....

Ok. Here I go with the excitement from the last few days...

Let me think...where to begin...I know...I will tell you a story...

Once upon a time...Wait. Not that kind of story...Well maybe...

This story begins almost twenty years ago on a bus loaded with a group of talented musicians and singers...mostly singers. Although a humble group they were known in some parts as "world-famous".

Every day on the bus these musicians had a routine. There would be laughing, sleeping, crying, story telling, prayer time, personal time and the list goes on and on...The group would do everything...almost...on the bus...sometimes, it was all they could do to survive each day...but as each day passed they became a family.

As all families, this one had its quirks...Let us take a closer look at two of the "sisters". The first sister was going through some personal issues with her biological family. Every day when it was time to share, she would share the newest happenings of her family. The things that were happening to her were very personal, and scary to her and she was very brave to share them. Along with that, she was outspoken and liked to follow the rules as they were intended....

Enter sister B - She was blinded to the true source of the first sister. She didn't understand what she was going through and selfishly thought Sister A should keep to herself. So much drama... It didn't help that sister A had demonstrated her desire to follow the rules to Sister B and call her on a rule that she thought was borderline....This only made the tension worse...Still, in her selfishness, Sister B spoke to trusted advisors in her home state and in her Bible..

BEAR ONE ANOTHERS BURDENS>>>>

This was the phrase that kept popping up when Sister B tried to ignore all other situations until it could no longer be ignored...I bowed my head and prayed for forgiveness...that was the easy part. I knew I had to confront Sister A...it could be ugly...she may not forgive me...we still had a lot of time left to spend on the bus...how could I endure it if someone doesn't like me...BEAR ONE ANOTHERS BURDENS...still pulsating through my thoughts...I took a deep breath, swallowed hard and jumped in...

I told her everything...right down to the part where I was sorry for judging her...I wanted to be her friend but I would totally understand if she wanted nothing to do with me...

I am not sure how long it took, but we became friends. Great friends. The kind of friendship that you realize only comes once in your life...one that is truly blessed.

I am happy to report that all is still well...we have an annual trip in November where I go see her in Arizona. It works out great. I get to see her husband briefly, he goes on to a missions trip and the rest of the weekend is ours to tear up the Gilbert area. Let me take this moment to say thank you to Ronnie for a great weekend. As always, it was the one I look forward to the most...Only 51 more weeks.

I realize this post is already long but I wanted to put a couple more thoughts in here. While their stories may not be read tonight...the tale of friendship may still be told at a future date.

First, I have a friend who has been my friend for too many years to count...I have felt the greatest love and hardest loss because of him. It is a story of believing, faith, caring and forgiveness...(Sure there is ugly stuff but who wants to remember that?). You know who you are my friend and I thank you for caring about me so much that you were concerned about me. You have no idea what it did for me.

Second, My traveling friend...I miss you too. Please come home safely. We will have lots of scrapping parties when you return.

Third, I have a friend who just returned from Hawaii...Lets get together soon to see all the goodies you got and to scrap your trip. We have been able to spend some quality time together scrapping and it has been great.

Last, but certainly not least...My Expressions friend... I aprreciate how much our friendship has grown over the last several months. You mean a lot to me. Thanks for everything...

Ok. I am pausing...I just wanted to let some of the friends in my life know that I appreciate you...I know so many times we can go through life and not let the friends you care about even know...Now you have no excuse. I have witnesses. :)

Fall In...

Fall. Don't ya just love fall? I do. I love the crispy mornings and the trees turning colors...and oh wait...this is California...the crispy mornings are crispy hotfrom the sun, and the only color the trees turn are brown. We all hope the Santa Ana's don't flair not only for the sake of lessened fires, but also for the sake of our allergies. Still, I love Fall.

It is the start of the Holiday hustle and bustle. It is all go from here on out. We have been so busy this year that the only Pumpkin Patch we were able to go to was the one at the local grocery store. (how sad huh?) Well, on the bright side, we are just happy to have a pumpkin and not pay a ton of money for.

Once Halloween is over, the weekend should be the last quiet weekend until after the first of the year.

Hang on to your hats! We are in for a busy ride...

On a Scrappy note...I ordered this! But I didn't pay full price. My very good friend asked my opinion on it and it was such a great deal that I got one too! (Thanks friend!) It should be coming soon. I hope it gets here before I leave for Arizona next week..

I am home sick today so I have been playing with my design studio in anticipation of its arrival.

Have a great day!

You don't know Jack!!!

Till you've heard Jack FM!

That is my little slogan for the radio station my friend introduced me to this weekend. I love it. In fact, I have listened on the way home from work. It is about the only time I can listen to the radio anymore. Fun stuff.

This past weekend, I went away with a friend to Indio to scrapbook ALLLLLLLLLLL weekend. We had a great time. We completely rearranged the furniture in the condo. It was great!!! I will have to add some before and after pictures for you...hopefully I can do that tomorrow for you...

I did great on my layouts. I got 14 pages done and I am now officially less than a year behind on my scrapping. This is a good thing. Geez. I swear I was right at a year for so long.

So, on other news. My mom just had a third appointment with doctors and specialist to see if she had cancer. The tests were inconclusive and they will check again in four months. Praise the Lord. I was a nervous wreck for awhile. Really. I couldn't even put my thoughts and feelings into words so I just prayed it through...

I will work on getting those pictures posted.

40 til 40 Begins...

Well gang...tomorrow starts the 40 til 40 ...Not for me but for my friend. Many of you have watch me prepare endless nights of preparing for it. Well, tonight I dropped off the first two weeks of goodies. My intent was to drive out tonight and leave the two bags on her front porch but her husband was out so I was actually able to hand it to her. I gave her the first envelope and told her it should explain everything.

I can't tell you what the goodies are until after she opens them but I might be able to share along the way.

This weekend I am going to Indio with a friend. I can't wait. We plan to scrap all weekend. Isn't that great???

Ok. Time for sleep. I am really tired, Talk to you all soon

Goodbye Weekend...

Well, Tour de Crop was a great success. I had a great time checking out other Southern Ca. scapbook stores...spending money (butr not too much), meeting new people and having a GREAT HOST!!! Thanks Red Bee for all the fun.

Today, I was able the get some scrapbook maintenance done. I FINALLY put two albums together. Usually I just scrap the pages and put them in a "safe" place. Well, I finished putting the pages in 2004 and 2005. Let me just say...I am glad that is over and I hope I don't find any other pages that need to go in there...We could be in some trouble.

I have a friend who left on a very long and nice trip this last week. I hope you have a great time. thanks for the card. I miss you too.

Also, there are a couple of friends who are going through some tough times...I want you to know that I am thinking and praying for you.

That is all for now. Talk to you all soon.

Ed On Design & Tour de Crop

Hello all you happy pappy bloggers. Nice to see you again...

Well, tonight I thought I would feature a special friend of mine. I have know him for many years and after several years of not really knowing where each other had landed...we reconnected. I wrote about him in an earlier blog.

I have never met anyone who is as creative and talented as he is. I am not talking scrapbook world, I am talking other stuff...Stuff I don't think I have fully grasped yet. I am getting an inkling and I just wanted to share with you his great gift. You can look here for his most recent work. It is a weekly e-magazine that comes out.

I can't really do justice to what he is capable of but I can tell you this...He is a very talented man.

Tomorrow I head out for a tour de crop with the Red Bee. I can't wait. Over 20 of us will hop on a bus and travel to 2 other scrapbooking stores in Southern California. I know our tour guide will have lots of fun stuff planned for us. I must try to get some shut eye though so that I can be ready to hit the shops bright and early.

Talk to you fine folks tomorrow...hopefully

Carnival Party

I know...it has been a long time but I am here now... Let's see... What would you like to hear about today...

This weekend was my friend's son's 6th birthday. The plan was a simple party, one where he could invite a few friends and have some fun...at the same time his mom and dad could maintain sanity. Eli had other plans. All he wanted was a Carnival Party...Really??? Ok...Maybe we can do a little something. (See Birthday boy to the right)

This party was amazing! And I helped! I have a couple pics below so you can see all the fun...I made the cupcakes...don't they look professional? Oh and the choc. pretzels were also home-dipped. The party was a great success but suspect Eli's mom and dad are still recovering brom today.

On another note...I had a great day with the hubby today. After church we thought we would hit Home Depot and Target to get some errands done. We ended up getting a really great deal on a great dishwasher... from Best Buy! See, the one we had was used as a dish drying rack since we moved in. It just never worked right....Now, hopefully...we will have one that works. Mike is trying to install it as I write but the sounds coming from the kitchen are not too pleasant...I have been kicked out and I hear some grumbles. It can't be good. Here's hoping it all works ok. He has already said...no more appliances.

Ok. I am done for now. Talk to you soon

Hooked on a Feeling...

Anyone know that BJ Thomas song? Anyone know who BJ Thomas is???

Well, today we learned about "I-messages" and confrontation...that is how to confront someone who has done ya wrong...The key thing to remember is to hook onto a feeling that you are hearing from your confrontee...Hense...Hooked on a feeling.

I am really enjoying this training. We are doing tons of role playing so you all better watch out. Once I was afraid to confront you and now you will not know what hit you. Just kidding. I am getting some great stuff here though.

Tomorrow is the last day of training and then we head home. I am hoping that Georgina (my partner in crime) and I can stop and check out the outlets on our way out of town.

Are you ready for some pictures???Who should we start with???A jewelry set I made to wear to Bethany's party...Bethany and Mike's trip to MO...then b-day...

Beautiful necklace and bracelet....Isn't it? :)

Here are some Missouri pics...Mike and BEthany and Bethany's first fish... and Papa

The rest will have to wait...this girl is tired. Tomorrow's traing is on conflict and how to have a win win outcome...Are you as excited as me? See you tomorrow.

Shrink Wrap

Well September is already speeding by.

Bethany had a great b-day. She had some from friends from school come to Castle Park in Riverside to celebrate. The kids had a great time eating pizza, playing in the arcade, riding the rides and playing golf. Miniature golf that is. I will post a couple of pictures later.

This week I am in Indian Wells at a Leadership Effectiveness Training, (L.E.T.). Yesterday we learned about behavior windows, roadblocks in conversation and active listening. Sorry, did you say something?

Our homework is to read, read, read and to give a 5 minute recap of Active Listening. I am getting really good at saying, "So what I hear you saying is..." and "You sound like..." I feel like I am in a therapist office (Shrink) and I am the one helping you all work through your issues. Aren't you glad...? Don't answer that.

Really though. It is a great course. It is a course by Dr. Thomas Gordon (Link to be added later) and I recommend everyone to read it. It has lessons for work and home. Bet you can't wait to hear what I have to say today...

Have a great day. Hopefully, I will add some pics tonight.

Yo Ho..Yo Ho..The Single Life for me...

At least for a week...Only three more days of the single life. Mike and Bethany come home on Sunday. Don't get me wrong...I miss them terribly but I do love having a week of less stress. The picture below shows the serene feelings I am feeling...

Ok. Moving on...This weekend to celebrate my being single I am going to scrapbook...Yep...Friday night and Saturday (all day)...I can't wait...Plus, I can pretty much buy whatever I want since I still have lots left from the garage sale.

Bethany is still having a tummy ache. We made an appt with the dr. on Tuesday. I will keep you all posted on the results. She will be 6 on Friday. So big! So fast!!!

Kay, think I am done catching you all up. Talk to you soon my friends.

Wednesday news

Good morning all you fine people in blog land...So this is what you look like in the morning...

Well, I should be at work but my little darling is sick so I am staying home with her today. I took her to the doctor on Sunday for a sore throat and yesterday for a tummy ache. Not just any tummy ache...the kind that makes you roll all over and groan and cry. (Not me, her).

So they did some lab work. She was so brave. (I owe her a webkinz). She didn't even cry when they drew her blood. She just wanted to feel better. Dr has put her out of school today...at least until she feels better and that means, I get to stay home with her.

My nieces went back home to NC last night. I miss them terribly all ready but I am sure their mom is glad to see them.

Anyone who does not already know...there is a garage sale at the Red Bee on Sunday. I will be there selling much of my stuff...some scrappy toys too. Hope to see you there.

Reconnect...

I made it! Haven't blogged in awhile. I will use the excuse that my internet was not being friendly...but I am here now so you can all rejoice! Both of you...

Not sure what to write about today. I think of things during the week and think, "Oh! I should write that on my blog..." By the time I get a chance to sit at the computer...I either can't remember a lick of what I was going to write or I have so much I don't know where to start. Not sure which is the case this time...probably a little of both.

I will start with "Wicked". It was really good. I liked it the second time better than the first. Bethany was glued to the stage and loved every minute of it. She won't stop listening to the CD. One could say it is "Wicked Awesome".

Saturday was a really fun day. Bethany and I spent the day with Mary and her boys. We went to the park and the kids played in the water. Then we went to the Cerritos Mall (An old hang out of mine that carries lots of memories.) for lunch. After lunch, we parted ways as Mary had to get ready for work and I needed to get some things in the mall. While I was there, I ran into a very special friend of mine. I haven't seen him in about 12 years or so. This was really a nice surprise. So, if you are reading this, know that I am thankful for the reconnect. Hope you are too.

Well folks...time for me to finish the dishes and hit the hay. This is one tired girl. Talk to you all soon...I know you will be waiting with baited breath...

I'm All Shook Up

In case anyone is wondering...we all survived the earthquake. Gotta love good ole Cali! (that is all I have to say about that).

It is official. I was promoted at work this week. (That is the good news) They are planning on loading my plate even higher (that is the bad news.) I am very excited.

My neices are still here from North Carolina so we are all going to see "Wicked" on Saturday. We have Bethany listening to the Soundtrack and she can't wait. All the kids will be wearing green shirts...I thought about getting my mom a black hat but I think she may be offended...what do you think. :)

Well, I think that is all I have for now... (...I want to be POP - U - U - LAR...)

The dreaded ABC's

Ring ring...Mom called me last Friday and asked if Mike and I would mind taking my dad with us to see Mama Mia. She was going out of town and dad was told by his doctor that he needed to take it easy this weekend. "Sure Mom. No problem. Why does Dad need to take it easy?"

Dad had a Biopsy today and needs to take it easy and watch for any kind of side effects from it. I get off the phone...thankful that I am home alone...my head is swirling...a Biopsy? Why? What does this mean? Are they looking for...? But what if...?

I call mom back..."What are they looking for?"
CANCER. The "C" word. More spinning...how can it be? This is the guy who was my pal since I pushed my way into this world. We understand each other when no one else does. We have the same dumb sense of humor (again, only understanding each other when everyone else seems to think we have lost our marbles.)... I used to crack a joke when I got in trouble...dad would laugh...mom would get mad...she just didn't get it. Daddy did. We even snore the same (Quiet and genteel...like a kitten purring). I know it is appointed for a man once to die...I realize the older I get that the shorter life is. Why are my cheeks wet? I am crying...I love both my parents so much...maybe too much...I don't think I could bear it if anything happened to them...In my selfishness...NO!!! I am not ready for this!!! Please. Please God!

Wait! When will the test results come in? I call mom back...Wednesday...Ok. There is nothing to worry about just yet. I really had to pray that I would stop worrying about this until there was something to worry about.

I talked to my sister to see if I could get some more details...Dad had an Abnormal blood test, they needed to do a Biopsy to check for Cancer. See? The dreaded ABC's.

Results are in...All Clear. There is something wrong. They are looking into it but there is no cancer. Thank you God. See? All this worry and it was all ok.

Mission SNAPPED!

Hello all,
I have been on a mission to frantically catch up on my picture developing. I am about 6 months behind on it (or so I thought). I thought I would only print pictures when I needed them but it just doesn't work for me that way. I like to have extra of everything...just in case I run out. I will buy two of each kind of paper because you never know what y ou will need it for. Yes, I am a nut. Anywho...

I have been trying to get creative on how to pay for them since now that I have over a hundred...I don't think hubby will be too thrilled with me forking over that kind of cash just to preserve my sanity...(He already has his doubts)...

So, I signed up with YORKPHOTO and SNAPFISH. Both labs are exactly the same. You have the same edit options (including the same borders) and some free prints. York had a special for 40 free prints and Snapfish...20 plus for the July special...50 prints for a penny each. I placed two orders each with each photo lab. Snapfish was placed on Sunday (13) morning and York was placed on Friday (18).

I have had my doubts about Snapfish from past experiences. The last time I ordered (several years ago) it took about 3-4 weeks before I received my photos. I called to find out what was going on and they were rude and unresponsive. I said I would never go back if that is the kind of service I was going to get.

Fast forward to present...Very dear friends of mine say they haven't had any trouble with Snapfish so I thought I would give it another shot...I have an email from York. My order is complete and ready to ship. BOTH ORDERS FROM YORK...processed in about a day and a half. Where are my orders from Snapfish??? Still processing. This is a test to see how long it will take to actually get the photos...Needless to say, I am pretty much where I was several years ago...SNAPPED! Hope you all have better luck. My favorite is still SHUTTERFLY. If you are interested in trying any of these out...please send me an email and I will send you the links. Once you recomment people to other sites...you can get more free prints. :) Free is always good.

Beach Bon Fire

Well it has been a few. Definitely more than I had anticipated.

Sunday we had a party at the beach. Family bon Fire. It was really fun, cold and windy. Wish you were there. We are going again when my other neice gets here. Hopefully she will be here soon.

This is a picture I took of my Nieces. Isn't it fabulous? I cant wait to scrap it. I have several that were great...if I do say so myself.

Ok, well I don't have anything poetic to say today...anyone have a topic we can start? Taking all ideas here.

Talk to you soon.

Let Freedom Ring

Okay Okay so I am a couple of days late to write this, but some tribute must be made to our founding fathers, our flag, our country and the brave soldiers who helped make this a free country.

Bethany sang the "Star Spangled Banner" in church last week. I nearly cried when I saw someone so young singing such a powerful song. I explained a little about what the song was saying, and I am sure that she does not fully understand the impact of the song, but she, along with the millions of other kids priveledged to be born in this country, is the future of our great land. The more we can explain to them now, the better they will be prepared for the future. They will soon be the brave.

I hope that everyone had a fabulous 4th and took a moment to thank God for the freedoms we have. It is so easy to take advantage of them.

My Strongest Weakness

Recently I have been disappointed by some events that have taken place in my life. I am the kind of person who will do whatever I can for my family and friends. If there is something they need or want...no matter how small, large or unimportant it is to me...I will find a way to support their quest. Many times I will cancel any plans that I currently have just to help out. It's just the way I am.

Generally I don't expect anything in return but it is difficult for me when the jester is not returned. I know that most people are not constructed like me. I really don't know of anyone else who would do some of the things that I would do...Does it make me stupid? Sometimes I think so because I can get really emotional when I am not supported when I ask for it.

I spoke to my friend/sister in law about this (We have been friends since we were weee lasses and now I am lucky enough to have her for a sister. God IS good); She told me, "It is your strongest quality, Bec". That statement said volumes to me. Yes, I do realize she didn't say it was my "best" quality but still. This is a unique trait to me. My family knows that at any given moment I will drop whatever it is and help them if they needed it. I would too. It is tough sometimes but I know that I cannot expect others to be who I am. God made us all different for a reason.

Ok. Enough on this one. It has been eating at me for awhile and wanted to get it in writing. There will be more posts...Lucky you...

Somebody Talk some SCRAP!!!

Just a couple of scrappy things to share. I found some HUGE deals at Big Lots. (Thanks Echo).

Annie Adams has been demoing various Cannon printers all over Orange County. If you get a chance...go check her out. Bring your camera or chip! It is really fun stuff.

Oh! This week I have been researching photo developers. I found York Photo and I hear KODAK has some great stuff too. Of course, my regular go to is Shutterfly. Love to hear if you have more...OH! Snapfish.

Ok. I am done. One more thing...you can find me on Facebook.

Have a great night.

The Other Side of the Fence

You won't believe this but I have been trying to find the perfect words to blog all week.

I saw a play last Saturday that really touched me...(YES!!! it was Annie Get Your Gun! AGAIN!) This had a few different emotions that shot through me...First, let me say that Tommy was awesome as always. I sat next to his mom and we both started to "sniff" when he sang his love song. Then, my mind pictured Tommy as a little boy, laughing and acting things out. (Yes, I can remember that far back!!!). It was like the flashes were shooting to me one after another...frame after frame of his face through the years. Different and special moments shared.

Time is so strange. My five year old can't wait to drive...Seniors in HS can't wait to get out and finally make it to the other side of the fence...That was me. I was going to play life as it came. I couldn't wait to be on the other side of the fence...now, here I am, where I couldn't wait to be, on the other side of the fence...looking back at the HS and five year old thinking..."Man, those were the days..." I know. I swore I would never think that too...just wait!

Anyway, on to the rest of emotions from "Annie...". This was a special performance because it was the final one...The last one of the season, of Tommy's career in BYT, the last time Mary would have to volunteer, the last time Tommy's "fans" would see him in this venue. I remember when it came time for our last concert on tour. The feelings and emotions run so rampant. You swirl with anticipation, excitement and energy that the last concert gives. You sing your heart out...after all...this is it...in the back of your mind you never forget that this is the last time you will be singing with these people as a group. On my last tour we wanted to leave our mark...so we left our shoes on the stage. After you have expended all your energy and sung your heart out, reality sinks in.

Somewhere, somehow you have to say goodbye to these people who are much more than friends, they are family. These people you have spent every minute with (and I mean EVERY minute with) for the past 90 days. Eat, sleep, study, pray, grow, sing, perform, teach, encourage, laugh, cry...you get the idea. Where do you find the heart to move on? Yet, you have to. You promise to keep in touch and never let go. In your heart...you never do.

Miracle of the Moment

Lately, the melodies that have been floating through my car are the tunes of Steven Curtis Chapman's album entitled, "This Moment". I bought the album when it first came out because his music never gets old. His songs always seem to be written just for me at the time he has released the songs. This album is only different in that I think every song on the CD has inspired and/or spoken to me in some way. I think he really did write them all for me. I just think he forgot to put me in the acknowledgments...I am sure it was an oversight.

I was talking to a friend tonight about how one moment I couldn't sleep because I was crying out (in my head), wondering if this was it...Is this really my life? This is definitely not my life's dream...Don't get me wrong, I love my little girl, my husband, family, friends etc, but I had sooo much more I was going to do with my life. Struggling was not part of the dream...I have so much potential...Here I am, almost 40 and what do I have to show??? I want a new deck of cards...these were dealt wrong!!
These are the questions that have been nagging at me...

Then I start to hear the melody that has been weaving through my car, into my brain and wrapping around my heart until it melts with the words it is taking in... I have listed them below because every time I hear the song or think about the words, I realize something new...There are parts of my life right now that I wouldn't change for anything...I worry about the past, the future etc...I don't need to. God has everything under control. My job is to live this moment, today, right now...to the fullest...whatever it brings...live it with all my being... That is all I have. It is all you have...Right now...This moment.

If I knew how to attach the song, I would do it so you could hear the magic of the music and lyrics together...All I have are the lyrics that I attached for you. I hope it speaks to you like it does to me. Also, I am attaching the link to his website (At least I know how to do that). He has some great insight and blogs...Go check it out.

The Miracle of the Moment

It's time for letting go
All of our if only's
'cause we don't have a time machine
And even if we did
Would we really want to use it?
Would we really want to go change everything?

'cause we are who and where and what we are for now
And this is the only moment we can do anything about
So breathe it in and breathe it out
Listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss
The miracle of the moment

There's only one who knows
What's really out there waiting
In all the moments yet to be
And all we need to know
Is He's out there waiting
To Him the future's history
And He has given us a treasure called right now
And this is the only moment we can do anything about

So breathe it in and breathe it out
Listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss
The miracle of the moment

And if it brings you tears
Then taste them as they fall
And let them soften your heart
And if it brings you laughter
Then throw your head back
And let it go, let it go
You gotta let it go

Listen to your heartbeat
Breathe it in and breathe it out
Listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss
The miracle of the moment
Breathe it in and breathe it out
Listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss
The miracle of the moment

Mary, Git yer gun...

You are gonna need it to ward off screaming fans.

This has got to be short because we are going to Knotts Berry Farm tomorrow and I need to get my beauty sleep. I have so much to say though and by tomorrow, I will be just another day behind...

Tonight was AMAZING!!!! I went to see "Annie Get Your Gun" presented by Biola Youth Theater. My best friend's son is the lead role. He was FANTASTIC!!!! He just gets better and better. We have been through alot over the years. I remember pacing in the hospital room on the day he was born. Wasn't that yesterday?

Tommy, I know you don't read this (Heck, I don't think you even know that I have it), but this section is dedicated to you. From the day you were born, you have always been so special to me. Words cannot describe it. You are so much more than my friend's son. You are pieces of a whole that have enriched my life beyond measure. I have watched you grow from a sleeping baby in my arms (one that would graciously fall asleep as you my heard my sweet voice telling you about the world that lay ahead of you..or my world as I knew it at the time. We all know that story...hee hee) to this young man I saw, not only on the stage but also afterwards as you spoke to your friends, family and fans and continue to see as I watch you. You are truly amazing Tommers. You have so much to offer this world and I hope and pray you hold fast to the path God has planned for you. He has such great things in store for you. I have always told you that you are not allowed to get older etc. This time I really mean it!!! I love you Tommers...

So, with that said, I move on to Bethany. She graduated from Kindergarten on Tuesday. (Yes, Tommy, I remember when you started Kindergarten too...)...We took her to Disneyland and made reservations at Ariel's Grotto in California Adventure. She loved it although I think it was a challenge letting it all sink in. Oh and don't forget she was insistant that she spend her money on a new do from Libby Lu. Our time is so short with these little treasures and I pray I don't let the years slip by. She is quite a beauty and has so much potential. (Mary, I see what a great job you did on Tommy and I hope that I can be that great of a mother to Bethie. Thanks for your great example over the years.)

This is it. I can't write anymore because I can no longer see through my tears. It is time to turn off the faucet and try to get some shut eye. Sleep tight all.

Crazy Daze

I don't even know where to start. So, I am not going to revisit the last few days until I can catch my breath. It was really a great weekend but so jam packed with fun I can't hardly stand it. Ok. Let's just start with basics...Friday, I went scrapbooking at the Bee. A great time was had by all...My friends that read this - Thanks for the fun and the listening ear.

Saturday we took the long drive to a little desert town called Ridgecrest. My aunt and uncle live there. My cousin is in town from Tennessee. She thought it would be fun to have a b-day party for her 2 year old son. I think she was a little disappointed that there were so few people that showed up. (Me, Bethany, Mom, Dad, and my brother, Her uncle Jeff, Her Dad, Mom, Grandma and sister). Let me tell you. That is a long haul.

Sunday, was church...then choir...then Bible study...

I will add that I have been trying for three days to install a media program onto my computer and it keeps messing up. I'd like to pitch it out the window but I need to make a "music CD/video" for Bethany's class and I can't get the dumb thing to work. Dontcha love technology?

I am stumped on what else to say...Just been one of those weeks.

So that is the exciting life of bec today. Tomorrow I am hoping to write more. I have big plans to add some links of people who have inspired me...in the near future...Most of them, are musical influences that will definitely show my age but I think sometimes it is good to reflect back in an effort to prepare for the future.

Until the next time...

Woo - Hoo Day TWO!!!

Well, well...I am on a roll...Isn't that how it always goes though??? You start out doing something you are sooooo excited about and after awhile it just wears down...Soon I will be writing every other day, then every week...I will write less and less until "POOF!" you wonder..."What happened to that girl? She used to be so nice and friendly...Now, she just doesn't even write or call...What was her name again???Oh well...time to move on." Let me assure you that I have no intention of abandoning you all...All both of my friends that I already talk to on a regular basis...(You know who you are).

Ok...enough of the gibber jabber...This is business. Since I am still finding all the wonderful and fun stuff I can do with my blog, I thought I would introduce you to the new pieces I add and therefore give you a small glimpse into my measly life. Hopefully you will also get some wisdom, insight, love, tears and laughter along the way.

So far we haven't really talked a lot about scrapping have we? Well, I will start by saying the first addition to my blog is my favorite Scrap booking Store. Can you guess what it is???Yep, You guessed it. The RED BEE!!! I love this store. Not only can you find just about anything you need to complete your pages...the employees are great too. Please indulge me a minute so that I can brag a bit about this wonderful store. I know... Top 10 reasons why I love this store...Here goes...

• 10. Knitting Section (I don't knit but it sure looks like fun)
• 9. Nice Miscellaneous Craft Section ( ALL KINDS of stuff for kids and adults to craft)
• 8. Great Samples of projects found through out the store
• 7. Fun Quickuts Club (Again, I don't own QK but I like what it does!!!)
• 6. Fabulous Selection of Beads and Beading Supplies (Love to make jewelry...very convenient to have it right there for me)
• 5. Tool Supplies (They have some handy for you to use while you are there...)
• 4. Wonderful, Fabulous, Totally Awesome, Creative Crops (so much fun)
• 3. Scrap book space on Friday nights and on Crop days...well, anytime really. You get a whole table to yourself. It doesn't get any better for me. Have you seen my stuff???!!!
• 2. The best staff, design team and owners of any store I have ever had the pleasure to shop. Let me tell you, the staff and manager is always willing to help you out with whatever you need, whether it is to find something you are looking for or help on a project. I have gone in there looking for something that they didn't have and the manager ordered it for me!! The owners have some of the best work ethics and the friendliest personalities! When I see them, they always want to know what they can do better...Who does that????

And the number one reason The RED BEE is my favorite scrap booking store is...Drum Roll Please....

• 1. GREAT FRIENDS I MEET THERE!!! (All you guilty pals know who you are...)

Ok. That is enough from me for one night. I need to try to post the link now. Wish me luck!

Have a FANTASTIC Day!

Let's Talk Scrap!

Well, I finally did it. I have a new blog and I intend to use it!!!
So, whatcha think of my blog name? I think, (and all you who really know will think the same), that it is totally me! I love to Scrap! and I love to talk! but mostly, I love to talk scrap!!! I thought of the name one day when we were at a friend's house and my husband wanted to leave. It was getting late and we had work and school the next day. Anyway, he said..."Come on Honey!" and I replied, "Hey, I'm talkin' scrap!" There went the light bulb. I knew what I wanted to name my blog.

I am new to this so I hope that all you seasoned bloggers (You know who you are) will help guide me. I have a lot to learn...how to upload pics, video all kinds of stuff. This is going to be so much fun.

I have been looking at different blogs to see all the fun stuff I can do so look out, there is more to come on this fun filled blog...

Well, I will chat with all you fine folks later. For now, there is supper to put on the table.